Having a dysfunctional key is a common problem that car owners face, but having a perfectly-functioning key locked inside your car will surely give you a headache! This is particularly stressful if it happens while you’re on the side of a busy road or somewhere that feels unsafe.
If this situation is one of your worst fears and you aren’t sure how to open your car door without your keys, check out our top tips below.
#1 Check all car doors
We suggest you try out the obvious solution first with the lowest potential for damage – check all doors to see if you can gain access. In some instances, a faulty driver’s side lock fails to lock one passenger door, and you’ll never know unless you try.
#2 For emergencies, dial 999 or use forcible entry
In instances when a child or animal is locked in the car and you are afraid that they might suffocate, do not hesitate to call for help immediately.
Should you choose to break a window, choose a window that’s far away from the occupant/s. Cover the window with a tape of any kind if available—this may help you remove the glass safely, keeping the broken pieces together upon applying force.
#3 Use tools such as a screwdriver, rod, or an inflatable wedge
Exercise caution when using this method, as this can easily damage your car’s interiors and exteriors. Use the screwdriver as a wedge to open your door and push the lock with a rod.
You can apply the same principle when using an inflatable wedge—use this to open up your car door instead of a screwdriver, and then use a rod to push the lock. Inflatable wedges, however, can be expensive.
Another problem with this method is that these items may not be readily accessible unless you happened to stop near a shop or hardware store.
#4 Try the shoelace method
If you have access to a shoelace and your car is equipped with post locks or vertical door locks, then this method may work for you. First, you’ll need to tie a slipknot in the middle of your lace; a slipknot is one that you can tighten by pulling the string from both sides. Next, wedge the corner of your car door open just enough for you to get the lace in between the door and the frame. Land the loop on the vertical lock and when the position is perfect, pull on both sides of the lace to tighten the string and then pull it up to unlock your door. It may seem easy, but this method involves precision and many car owners usually find little success in this, therefore you can make this your last resort.
#5 Call your local automotive locksmith
This is probably the most ideal solution that will save you from stress and keep you from damaging your car. Professional locksmiths have the proper tools and skills needed to safely unlock your car door for you and do it fast, too! It helps to have a locksmiths’ number in your pocket if you leave your phone or wallet inside the car.
Preventive measures
This situation can happen to any car owner, so it helps to be prepared and avoid stress. Have a spare key in a secure and accessible location such as your wallet that you always take with you when leaving your car. It is not ideal to tie a spare key in any exterior part of your car as thieves can easily spot this and compromise the security of your vehicle.
If all DIY methods fail, Easy Keys offers top-quality and affordable solutions to your car key problems in North West London. Since it’s unlikely that you’ll find the proper tools for car key problems on the side of the road, we are available to help you with your car key troubles 24/7.